The music industry never sleeps. Artists, producers, and fans seem to fuel a constant cycle of creativity, releases, and live events that keep the world of music alive day and night. Despite the fast-moving landscape, many don't think twice about pressing pause to attend Country Cares for St. Jude Kids. 

The nationwide music fundraiser turned 35 years old this year and celebrated its success in the heart of  Memphis, Tennessee, just a short drive from the state-of-the-art St. Jude Children's Research Hospital campus. 

Country Cares dates back to 1989, when country music legend Randy Owen, the lead singer of Alabama, was significantly moved by St. Jude founder Danny Thomas. After learning about his mission to end childhood cancer, he was hooked and rallied the country community to raise awareness for his initiative – Finding Cures. Saving Children. 

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"I was inspired by Danny Thomas. I met Danny in Atlanta, Georgia, and he expressed to me that he would love to see the country music industry get involved. I felt something in my heart," Owen recalled during an intimate media session during Country Cares. "I hope that at least one star, hopefully, several stars, takes to heart what has been part of my life for all these years. I hope they are willing to hunker down and spend the time and care for beautiful children's lives. I hate the word "cancer." I hate cancer. I'm a cancer survivor." 

To date, Country Cares has raised an impressive one billion dollars. To put this substantial figure into perspective, it costs two billion dollars annually to support and expand St. Jude, and this amount is projected to rise by 2027. Therefore, the powerful voices within the country scene are determined to stay persistent in their philanthropic efforts. 

Notable names such as Lainey Wilson, Bon Jovi, Kelsea Ballerini, Carrie Underwood, Megan Moroney, Brad Paisley, Jon Pardi, and most importantly, Old Dominion have used their platforms to ensure that no child dies in the dawn of life, the number one priority for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. With the help of generous donors and passionate volunteers, St. Jude has garnered the funds to continue extensive research to drive the survival rate for childhood cancer. 

Since the hospital opened its doors, the survival rate went from 20% to more than 80%. Their research benefits not only the patients of St. Jude but also other sick children in all 50 states and around the world. The innovative scientists and doctors of St. Jude conduct more clinical trials for childhood cancer than any other institution. The discoveries they stumble upon are not held secret. Instead, they share their knowledge with others to make a global impact. 

Over the course of two days (Oct. 21 and 22)  –  budding artists, influencers, the media, radio, and label executives had the eye-opening opportunity to learn about the rich history of St. Jude, explore the hospital grounds, and hear from the resilient patients and even selfless parents. While there were many returning faces, a handful of first-timers (including ourselves) were ready to embark on an experience that has been dubbed "life-changing."  From the moment Victoria Arlen – ESPN broadcaster and Paralympic gold medalist – stepped into the spotlight at the Peabody Hotel's opening ceremony, we knew we were in for a transformative time. 

Arlen was diagnosed with two rare neurological conditions: transverse myelitis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. These diseases caused inflammation in her brain and spinal cord, leading to paralysis and leaving her in a vegetative state for nearly four years. Here's the catch: she was fully aware of what was happening around her but was unable to move or communicate. This conditional is often called "locked-in syndrome." She was a patient at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, where she made a miraculous recovery and went on to achieve remarkable feats. 

This jaw-dropping speech set the tone for the seminar, leaving attendees hungry to learn more about St. Jude's work. That night, guests slipped on their Graceland Glam and boarded buses to visit Elvis Presley's stomping grounds. Us fans got a glimpse inside his living quarters – his legendary jungle room, trophy building, the meditation garden, where Presley and his family are laid to rest, and learned about his commitment to St. Jude. Thomas also inspired The King of Rock and Roll with his mission to provide free medical care for children battling life-threatening illnesses, regardless of race, religion, or ability to pay. Beyond financial contributions, Presley leveraged his star power to bring visibility to the hospital, encouraging his fandom and the public to support its cause. 

After navigating the breathtaking grounds of Graceland,  guests were treated to an electrifying performance from Jon Pardi. The "Dirt on My Boots" singer's energy was uplifting, encouraging everyone to show off their best Elvis Presley-inspired moves. Despite the rowdy night full of hip swivels and shakes, attendees were up and at 'em to visit the hospital's main campus. 

Volunteers welcomed Country Cares' attendees with open arms, fostering a heartwarming and inspiring environment. We got a chance to see research laboratories, clinical spaces designed to provide cutting-edge medical care, and learn how families are supported throughout their journey. In fact, one of the studios on campus has been dedicated to honor Owen and his wife, Kelly. 

"It is an honor to have this studio named after us," said Randy and Kelly Owen. "For 35 years, we've had the privilege of sharing the story of St. Jude with the world and seeing the impact our efforts make through meeting patients and their families. I am grateful to serve this incredible mission."